Floriana F.C. were crowned Malta Premier champions for the 27th time after staging a dramatic comeback to beat Marsaxlokk F.C. 2-1 in a tense YoHealth Malta Premier Finalissima played before 6,000 spectators at the National Stadium.
The Greens looked destined for disappointment after trailing at half-time against a Marsaxlokk side that controlled much of the opening period and appeared on course for victory.
Marsaxlokk took the lead on 36 minutes as Rasmus Linden anticipated Carlo Zammit Lonardelli and goalkeeper Guilherme Cioletti and lobbed the ball over the goalkeeper ending at the back of the net.
But Floriana responded after the break, drawing level with a Federico Varela shot that beat goalkeeper Mafoumbi.
The Greens then snatched victory deep into stoppage time through a goal that immediately sparked furious protests from the Marsaxlokk players and bench.
In the third minute of added time, Carlo Zammit Lonardelli launched a long cross into the area and substitute Kenan Dervisagic diverted the ball towards goal. The ball struck the upright before ending in the net, but Marsaxlokk insisted the Bosnian striker had failed to make any contact.
Following a lengthy FVS review, referee Matthew De Gabriele awarded the goal, triggering wild celebrations among the Floriana supporters.
Marsaxlokk almost forced extra time moments later when Aguirre delivered a dangerous cross into the area, but Weder Silva’s effort flashed across goal with Minala and Dodo unable to apply the finishing touch from close range.
Seconds afterwards, the final whistle confirmed Floriana’s return to the top of Maltese football after a six-year wait.
Having won the Closing Round and finished runners-up in the Opening Round, Floriana accumulated the highest overall points tally across the season, underlining their consistency throughout the campaign.
The title also strengthens Floriana’s position as the most successful club in Maltese football history, with this latest triumph taking their total number of league championships to 27.
For Marsaxlokk, defeat brought a bitter end to an otherwise impressive campaign. Despite the disappointment, they can still look ahead to European football next season after securing qualification for the UEFA Conference League.
